Manna for Your Morning

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. — Philippians 4:8 (NKJV) Instead of focusing on the bad reports and negative news, let’s fix our minds on the good report. Jesus is the truth (John 14:6); anything that contradicts Jesus is a lie. Fill your minds with things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Where your mind goes, your emotions and will tend to follow.

Words from the mouth of the wise are gracious, but fools are consumed by their own lips.  — Ecclesiastes 10:12 (NIV) May our speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, (Colossians 4:6a). Just as attractive and enjoyable as a well-seasoned meal, are words sprinkled with grace. Gracious words highlight the positive in others and always has a good report. Words of grace are never critical, but always full of love and understanding. Everything we say should be kind and well thought out so that we may have the right response for everyone. Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time! (Proverbs 15:23, NLT).

Smart people know how to hold their tongue; their grandeur is to forgive and forget.  — Proverbs 19:11 (The Message) If you find it hard to forgive, try this: Stop thinking about the offense and stop talking about it. That will allow forgiveness and healing to come easier. While you cannot erase the event from your brain, you can stop bringing the offense up to the forefront of your memory. Let it fade into the background. The more you rehearse it in your mind, the more heated and wounded your feelings become. Like a pot of boiling water, you have to remove the pan from the fire, if you want the water to cool down. Meditate on whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report (Philippians 4:8). The LORD is good and ready to forgive (Psalm 86:5). Let us be imitators of God (Ephesians 5:1).